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10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Trailer

Dec. 5 2025 Guides By Matthew Polito

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10 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Trailer

Whether you’re hauling equipment, starting a business, or upgrading your current setup, buying a trailer is a big investment—and asking the right questions can save you time, money, and frustration. After ten years in the trailer business, I’ve noticed that most shoppers fall into two categories:

  • Those who’ve done their homework and walk in knowing their GVWR, axle capacities, and all the small details.
  • Those who haven’t had time to dig into the details... and that’s completely okay. Helping customers understand what matters is one of my favorite parts of this job.

To make your buying experience smoother, I’ve put together a straightforward checklist. These 10 questions will help you compare options confidently and find the trailer that truly fits your needs.

1. What Types of Trailers Do You Sell?

At JTI Inc., we carry a wide range of trailers, including:  Red dump trailer and lineup of other colorful dump trailers on the back lot at JTI Trailers in Oakwood Village, Ohio

  • Enclosed trailers
  • Utility trailers
  • Construction trailers
  • Tilt trailers
  • Boat and jet ski trailers
  • Dump trailers
  • Aluminum trailers
  • Used trailers

Our inventory changes weekly, so you can usually find what you need without visiting multiple locations.

2. What Are the GVWR and Payload Capacity?

Weight ratings are among the most important details to understand:

  • GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): The maximum weight of the trailer plus cargo.
  • Payload capacity: How much cargo the trailer can safely carry.

Overloading a trailer can lead to tire blowouts, brake failure, and structural damage. Always verify weight specs with your salesperson and make sure the trailer meets or exceeds your hauling needs.

3. What Materials Are Used in the Trailer’s Construction?

A trailer’s durability and lifespan depend heavily on its materials. Key details to ask:

  • Frame material:
    • Steel is strong and affordable but needs rust protection.
    • Aluminum is lighter and rust-resistant, typically at a higher cost.
  • Flooring: What type of wood is used? How thick is it? Is it water-resistant or standard plywood?
  • Siding material and thickness: Plays a big role in longevity.

These construction details directly impact strength, maintenance needs, and long-term value.

4. What Does the Warranty Cover?

A good warranty says a lot about the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Ask:

  • How long is the warranty?
  • What components are covered (frame, axles, wiring, tires)?
  • Are there exclusions or fine print you should know about?
  • Does the dealership handle warranty repairs onsite?

Solid warranty support means peace of mind.

5. What Axle and Suspension System Does the Trailer Have?

Axle and suspension choices affect ride quality, load handling, maintenance, and repair costs.

Leaf Springs:

  • Traditional, reliable, cost-effective
  • Easy to repair (individual components can be replaced)

Torsion Axles:

  • Smoother, quieter ride
  • Low maintenance
  • If one fails, the entire axle typically needs replaced

Personally, I favor leaf springs because they’re easier and cheaper to service long-term.

6. What Are the Maintenance Requirements?

Regular maintenance keeps your trailer safe and performing at its best. Ask for a service schedule, which usually includes:

  • Tire pressure checks
  • Brake inspections
  • Grease and lubrication points
  • Electrical system checks

A helpful rule: Change axle grease annually or every 12,000 miles.

7. Do You Offer Customization Options?

Not every trailer is perfect right off the lot. Ask whether the dealership offers custom features such as:

  • Extra tie-downs
  • Added shelving (for enclosed trailers)
  • Upgraded lighting
  • Custom-built designs
  • Spare tire

A good trailer dealer will help tailor a trailer to your unique hauling needs.

8. What Is the Total Cost, Including Fees?

At JTI Inc., the price you see (on the trailer, website, or advertisement) is the price you pay. The only additional charges are:

  • Sales tax
  • Optional $35 temporary tag

There are no dealer fees, setup fees, or prep charges.

9. What Post-Sale Support Do You Offer?

A trailer dealership should support you long after purchase. At JTI Inc., we offer:

  • Parts and accessories
  • Axle replacements
  • Welding and fabrication
  • Electrical repairs
  • Undercoating
  • Hitches
  • Snowplow sales and installation

One critical question to ask anywhere: “Do you offer onsite repairs?”
We do—and our full-service team is equipped to handle just about anything.

10. Do You Offer Financing?

Trailers are a significant investment, so flexible payment options matters. While JTI Inc. doesn’t offer in-house financing, we partner with Sheffield Financial and other top-tier lenders to help customers secure competitive plans.


Looking for more guidance? See our quick guide to selecting the right trailer for you here. We have an in-depth guide to what to look for in utility and landscape trailers as well. 

Here's our guide for what to expect in terms of pricing. How Much Does a Cargo Trailer Cost? A Guide to Pricing